The chicken isn’t the only thing that’s hot in Nashville.  For those who live here, or visitors flocking to the “it” city, you’ll find that summer temperatures can rise quickly.  We have some solutions to a sticky summer in Middle Tennessee. Check out our favorite water attractions and beat the heat this summer.

Make a Splash at Waterparks
Waterparks are a great way to cool down and be social.  Ideal for family fun, Nashville boasts two amazing water parks:  SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland, Nashville Shores (by Piercy Priest).  Nashville Shores has a wave pool, water slides, a water treehouse, and a playground you’ll have to peel the kids off of when it’s time to go home.  

Another great option is Soundwaves at Opryland.  Soundwaves is both indoor and outdoor, so the family can enjoy aquatic fun rain or shine.  Soundwaves is available for hotel guests, private party bookings, and those who purchase overnight Soundwaves packages through Opryland.  This is the perfect way to take your waterpark experience up a notch. The indoor space features a Flow Rider, Slides, a Lazy River, cabanas, and an activity pool.  Adults can also enjoy a restaurant and adults-only bar area. The outdoor space features additional play space in the sunshine.

Photo: Soundwaves

Go Kayaking or Canoeing
For adventure seekers, Nashville has several options for kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding.  Explore the outdoors by kayaking down the Cumberland or canoeing the Harpeth River. River Queen Voyages, Foggy Bottom, and Paddle Up all offer kayaking and canoeing options for a fun day on the river.

Get on a Pontoon
Little Big Town was on to something.  Pontoons are a great way to celebrate summer and socialize with friends.  You can rent a pontoon at Elm Hill Marina which allows you to cruise Percy Priest Lake.  Round up some friends and be sure to make reservations a couple of weeks ahead, they fill up quickly!

Chill by the Lake
Nashville is home to several lakes that can be the backdrop to a relaxing summer day.  Radnor Lake, Percy Priest, and Cumberland Park are perfect places to go for a walk, read a book, or throw down a blanket and stay for a while.

Photo: Paddle Up Nashville and Radnor Lake

Chase Waterfalls
If you are willing to make a short drive outside of Nashville, check out Cummins Falls (about an hour and a half outside of Nashville) or Fall Creek Falls (just over 2 hours from Nashville) for some waterfall magic.  Just keep weather advisories and flood alerts in mind when making plans to visit these sites and follow safety precautions.

*Enjoy all waterparks, pools, rivers, and water sites responsibly.  Do not leave children unattended and use appropriate flotation gear when operating kayaks, canoes, and boats.  Check weather conditions at state parks and be cautious of summer rain/flash floods.

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Heather Brown, a Nashville Guide writer
Hailing from the Old Dominion, I've easily adapted my "Virginia is for Lovers" slogan to the "Nashville is for Music Lovers" lifestyle. After moving to Music City from Oklahoma City, I've explored middle Tennessee through the lens of artists' paintbrushes and urban canvasses. I've enjoyed eating, sipping, and dancing my way through Tennessee's capital while pausing periodically to strike a pose throughout the journey.